Bangladesh Captain Shanto Confirms Litton Das for First Test Against Australia
Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has confirmed that wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das will feature in the playing lineup for the opening Test against Australia at Marrara Stadium in Darwin. However, the skipper withheld the full playing XI, noting that the final bowling setup will depend on a morning pitch inspection.
What Happened
Ahead of the first Test match, Shanto addressed the media following Bangladesh’s training sessions. He confirmed the availability of Litton Das, who proved his fitness during batting nets and wicketkeeping drills. Das is slated to bat in the middle order at either position five or six.
Regarding team selection, Shanto explained that the team management is inclined toward their standard setup of three fast bowlers and two spinners, but a final assessment of the pitch on the morning of the match will dictate the ultimate composition.
Key Highlights
- Litton Das returns: Passed fitness tests during training sessions on August 12 and is set to bat at number 5 or 6.
- Likely bowling structure: Bangladesh leans toward a 3-seamer, 2-spinner setup.
- Spin options: Taijul Islam, recovered from a bruised finger sustained before the warm-up fixture, is expected to partner vice-captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz.
- Pace attack: Taskin Ahmed will spearhead the pace department, with two spots contested between Ebadot Hossain Chowdhury, Hasan Mahmud, Syed Khaled Ahmed, and Musfik Hasan.
- Squad reinforcements: Ebadot Hossain returned from paternity leave following injuries to Nahid Rana and Shoriful Islam. Shoriful has since been cleared to join the team for the second Test in Mackay.
Why This Matters
The return of key players provides critical balance to the touring side. Having Litton Das fit strengthens the middle-order batting and wicketkeeping duties. Furthermore, the recovery of lead spinner Taijul Islam and the return of fast bowler Ebadot Hossain give Bangladesh vital bowling options to adapt to Australian conditions.
What to Watch Next
The finalized playing XI will be confirmed at the toss on match morning in Darwin. Following the series opener, the squad will prepare for the second Test at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay, scheduled for August 22–26, where pacer Shoriful Islam is set to rejoin the group.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the first Test between Bangladesh and Australia taking place?
The opening Test match is being held at Marrara Stadium in Darwin.
What position will Litton Das bat?
Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto indicated that Das is expected to slot into the batting order at number 5 or number 6.
When will Shoriful Islam rejoin the Bangladesh squad?
Shoriful Islam has been cleared to link up with the touring squad in Mackay ahead of the second Test scheduled for August 22–26.
Source: Crictracker